Scripps research scientist wins 2004 Koch Prize
Beutler's work uses forward genetics to study human genes used by the innate immune system. He identified a protein called Trif, which helps the body respond to viruses and bacteria.
Science News for April 2, 2004
Building a scale sensitive enough to weigh a virus
Researchers use nanoelectromechanical systems to detect masses as small as 6 attograms, a third of the mass of a typical virus. The technology has potential for detecting and identifying microorganisms and biological molecules.
Preschoolers lead growth of antidepressant use, study reveals
A study by Express Scripts found that antidepressant use increased significantly among children and adolescents between 1998 and 2002. The fastest-growing segment was preschoolers aged 0-5 years, with use doubling in girls and growing by 64% in boys.
Scars of 9/11 linger with NYC firefighters
A recent study by Cornell University found that NYC firefighters experience high levels of PTSD, depression, and anxiety after the 9/11 attacks. The study also highlights the importance of open communication, teamwork, and employee involvement in decision-making to improve firefighter well-being.
Monitoring macrophages detects dementia
Researchers have successfully used PET imaging to detect dementia in macaque models. The study utilized the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor to identify macrophage activity, which is linked to neurodegeneration.
Shared gene switch for all plants found
Researchers have discovered a shared gene regulation mechanism in all major plant groups, controlled by microRNAs, and this system has been conserved for 400 million years. This finding opens up new possibilities for understanding plant development and evolution.
Report in BioScience details global decline of nonmarine mollusks
A staggering 42% of documented extinctions are mollusks, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts for these species. Nonmarine mollusk diversity is valued for its own sake and as an indicator of ecosystem health.
Transcendental Meditation lowers blood pressure in black adolescents
A study found that 156 inner-city black adolescents who practiced transcendental meditation twice daily for four months lowered their daytime blood pressures, with an average drop of 3.5 millimeters in systolic pressure and 3.4 millimeters in diastolic pressure.
SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateApr 2, 2004
JCI table of contents, 2 April 2004
A specific mutation in the KCNMB1 gene is associated with lower blood pressure, according to a study published in JCI. Researchers found that individuals with this mutation had lower diastolic blood pressure compared to those without it. The study suggests that targeting the beta1 subunit may have therapeutic potential for treating hyp...
Last call for nominations for 2004 National Academies Communication Awards
The National Academies are accepting nominations for the 2004 Communication Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in science communication. The winners will be honored at the Keck FUTURES Conference in November 2004.
Hypertension tamer
A gain-of-function mutation in the KCNMB1 potassium channel subunit is associated with a lower prevalence of diastolic hypertension. The beta1 subunit of the Ca2+-sensitive K+ channel protects against hypertension, as outlined in an accompanying commentary.
Favorite liquid revisited
A team of scientists has found that water molecules in liquid form clump much more loosely than previously believed, challenging 20 years of research. This discovery reopens the hunt for a better understanding of water's unique properties and potential applications in fields like biology.
Rich, vibrant community life of rural Maya described by BU archaeologist
A team of archaeologists from Boston University has uncovered the story of life among rural Maya in Belize's Sibun River Valley during the Late Classic Period. The research reveals a community that practiced sustainable agriculture and maintained dense vegetation to support their trade product: cacao.
Bim notes in the neuronal executioner's song
A new study has found that Bim regulation plays a crucial role in determining hippocampal vulnerability after injurious seizures and in temporal lobe epilepsy. The researchers suggest that understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying this relationship may lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating these conditions.
New software developed at Rensselaer predicts promising ingredients for new drugs
Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a software program that quickly identifies molecules with sound medicinal properties. The software uses shortcuts in chemistry and math to rapidly analyze vast molecular databases, predicting which compounds have the right chemical features for specific therapies.
Water molecules clump more loosely than previously thought
A team led by scientists at Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory found that water molecules form only two hydrogen bonds instead of the previously believed three or four. This discovery reopens the hunt for the structure of liquid water and could lead to a better understanding of the chemistry of cells.
Puzzle of corn's origins coming together
Corn's genetic origins have been revised after a study found it arose from a serendipitously viable cross between teosinte and gamagrass. Eubanks' research confirms teosinte was an ancestor of corn, with gamagrass contributing key genes.
The APCs of autoimmune disease
Activation of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) by microbial products leads to the breakdown of self-tolerance in the immune system. This breakdown induces autoimmune disease, a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.